belimumab

Belimumab is a fully human recombinant IgG1λ monoclonal antibody used as an add-on therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and active lupus nephritis in adults and children aged 5 years and older. It works by selectively binding to and inhibiting the B-lymphocyte stimulator protein (BLyS, also known as BAFF or TNFSF13B), a key factor in B cell survival. By blocking BLyS, belimumab reduces the survival of autoreactive B cells, promotes their apoptosis, and decreases differentiation into immunoglobulin-producing plasma cells. This mechanism helps reduce chronic inflammation and tissue damage associated with SLE. Belimumab was developed by Human Genome Sciences (now part of GSK) and is marketed under the brand name Benlysta[1][2][6][8].

Brand names

Benlysta

Other names

LymphoStat-B